Which symptom is commonly associated with heat stress?

• A. Headache
• B. Cough
• C. Rash
• D. Numbness

Answer: (A)

Headache is a common sign of heat stress because dehydration and electrolyte imbalance from sweating reduce brain blood flow and can irritate nerves, creating that pounding or throbbing sensation. Heat also causes blood vessels to dilate, which can contribute to head pain, especially when you’re overheating or not drinking enough fluids. That combination makes a headache one of the first indicators to notice in hot conditions, signaling you should cool down and rehydrate.

The other symptoms listed don’t fit heat stress as typical warning signs: a cough points to the respiratory system, a rash to skin or allergic reactions, and numbness suggests nerve issues or cold exposure. In heat-related illness you’d more often see dizziness, weakness, nausea, or fatigue, and in more severe cases confusion or fainting.